FHA Loans in Arkansas
The FHA loan limit in Arkansas is $472,030 for a single-family home. FHA loans require just 3.5% down payment and accept credit scores as low as 580.
The baseline FHA loan limit is more than sufficient for Arkansas, where home prices in most markets fall well within the limit. FHA loans account for a higher percentage of purchases in Arkansas than the national average, reflecting the state's larger first-time buyer population and the prevalence of buyers with moderate incomes. The relatively low property tax rate makes FHA monthly payments in Arkansas among the most affordable in the country.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: HUD, Zillow
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Min Down Payment
$16,521
3.5%
Est. Monthly Payment
$3,414
PITI + MIP
Min Credit Score
580
for 3.5% down
Monthly Payment Breakdown at FHA Limit
| Home Price | $472,030 |
| Down Payment (3.5%) | $16,521 |
| Loan Amount | $455,509 |
| Monthly Costs | |
| Principal & Interest (6.5%) | $2,879 |
| FHA Mortgage Insurance (MIP) | $209 |
| Property Tax | $208 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $118 |
| Total Monthly Payment | $3,414 |
* Estimated at 6.5% interest rate, 30-year fixed. MIP at 0.55% annual. Property tax at Arkansas's average rate of 0.53%. Includes upfront MIP of 1.75% rolled into loan.
FHA Loan Requirements
Credit Score
580+ for 3.5% down payment. 500-579 requires 10% down.
Down Payment
Minimum 3.5% of purchase price. Can be a gift from family.
Debt-to-Income
Maximum 43% DTI ratio (up to 50% with compensating factors).
Property Requirements
Must be primary residence. FHA appraisal required (stricter than conventional).
Employment
2 years of steady employment history. Self-employed need 2 years of tax returns.
Mortgage Insurance
1.75% upfront MIP + 0.55% annual MIP. Required for life of loan (unless refinanced).
FHA vs Conventional in Arkansas
| Feature | FHA | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Min Down Payment | 3.5% | 3-5% |
| Min Credit Score | 580 | 620 |
| Mortgage Insurance | Life of loan | Until 20% equity |
| Loan Limit (Arkansas) | $472,030 | $766,550+ |
| Best For | Lower credit, small savings | Good credit, 20%+ down |
